COVID-19 Initiative Dates
We updated this notice to reflect that the Interfacility Transfer without Prior Authorization accommodation was reinstated on Aug. 23, 2021 and expired on Oct. 31, 2021.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has taken steps to make access to the testing and treatment for our members easier and less expensive during this national health emergency.
The chart below indicates these initiatives, and its current status. We will continue to monitor the situation and update as needed. Check our provider site and our COVID-19 Related News for the latest information.
Initiative |
Start Date |
End Date |
March 2, 2020 |
Expired Dec. 31, 2020 |
|
March 7, 2020 |
End of Health and Human Services (HHS) public health emergency |
|
March 18, 2020 |
End of HHS public health emergency |
|
April 1, 2020 |
Expired Dec. 31, 2020* |
|
April 3, 2020 |
End of HHS public health emergency |
|
Reinstated Aug. 23, 2021 |
Expired to Oct. 31, 2021 |
|
Services scheduled between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2020 |
Expired Dec. 31, 2020 |
|
March 10, 2020 |
Expired Dec. 31, 2020 - Members access to the expanded telemedicine services. Expired Dec. 31, 2020 - The cost-share waiver for commercial and retail members. Copays, deductibles and coinsurance apply effective Jan 1, 2021. The cost-share waiver will expire at the end of the HHS public health emergency for Medicare members. |
*Services that were originally scheduled to end May 31, 2020